Chicks from hatcheries will arrive in the mail. Photo by Renee Caldwell
One of the quickest, easiest ways to obtain chicks it through your feed store, but if you're looking for a different breed, you may plan on ordering chicks from a hatchery.
One of the first things one discoveres when looking for sources is that they can be hard to find. It may be possible to find hatcheries that are within driving distance, such as Estes Hatchery, which is not too far off from Kansas City in Springfield, Missouri. They do offer one of the finer flocks of Welsummers despite being a hatchery!
Alternately, you may be able to find local breeders of varying quaity by taking a look at local ads and sites such as Craig's List. Contacting those offering chicks may reveal they are excellent breeders selling the chicks that don't make the cut in their breeding program for cheap.
At the lower right corner of this page you'll find a partial list of sources for hatchery quality chicks and ducklings- that is, birds that are not necessarily true to the standards set for the breed. These will be perfect for a home enthusiast without any intent to breed or show the birds or their offspring. I'll be expanding and updating this list, with reviews from folks who've used them and any details I can dig up about them such as breeds offered, hatching dates, and other species offered. Bookmark this page to see more in the future!
For your info: This list does not reflect personal experiences or quality of each hatchery- please research before ordering.
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